Our Trip to Bend, Oregon

I recently traveled to Bend, Oregon, where I met up with Kevin Kubota and his crew for the Digital Photography Bootcamp. I'd been to Central Oregon before to visit my sister, Meggen. She lives in Culver, which is only 45 minutes up the road. We, Andy and I, stayed in the cozy cabin that's nestled back in some woods off the beaten path. It was stunning. The slate stone shower was bigger than our master bedroom and had two large shower heads - wow. The main part of the cabin had a deep slate stone tub next to a river rock fireplace and a flat screen tv. It's a wonder that anyone bothered to get out of the room at all.

We flew cross country and I gave my lecture that evening. The students were great and the atmosphere was a electric. For the first time, my sister got to see my work and hear me talk. As for Andy, it was his gazillionth time!

Meggen got us up early to head over to Smith Rock for a hike and photo opportunity. The trail was great and there were rock climbers everywhere. Andy had a field day taking pictures as my sister and I caught up on family gossip and reminisced about the old days. 

Andy fell in love with Oregon and I have to agree that it's beautiful country. However, I'm not much for cold weather and it did flurry a few snow flakes while we were there. I guess Oregon didn't get the memo that it's Spring!

Next to my sister's house is the huge lake where the fish and boat every summer. The sheer rock formations kiss the shores and jut up to meet the nearby mountain range. It's truly breathtaking. 

My nephew, Beau, showed up his Uncle Andy on the four-wheeler. After they threw enough dirt around, I made a quick portrait on him. I liked this one the best, since it showed his boundless energy.

The also have a giant tramp, which my niece, Sienna, decided to bounce on for a while. I grabbed this picture during her play time.

All in all, the trip was a quick three days and not long enough. Our brief in and out left us wanting more. Kevin and his team were great and the students were supper awesome and enthusiastic. I watched them do live shoots, learn Lightroom and play with new lenses. 

I even got to meet the great, Craig Strong of Lensbaby - or rather the creator of Lensbaby! He's really down to Earth and a very creative guy.

I recommend Central Oregon for your next vacation. I also suggest checking out more about Kevin Kubota and Craig Strong too if you have a chance. 

Andy and I are back in Charleston and back to the grind. We're gearing up for our Living Social "Photoshop Tips and Tricks" coupon launch, the next 6-week class term to start and some upcoming photography workshops. Hopefully, we'll see y'all around the Center soon!

Best,

Stacy P